Crock-Pot Chicken Licken
Creamy and flavorful Crock-Pot Chicken Licken features tender chicken breasts in a rich mushroom tomato sauce with spices, perfect for a comforting family meal served over noodles or rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a pan and brown the chicken breasts well.
- Remove the chicken from the pan.
- Brown the chopped onion and minced garlic in the same pan.
- Add salt, paprika, ginger, chili powder, canned tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and water to the pan.
- Place the browned chicken breasts into the crock-pot.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crock-pot.
- Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.
- Serve over noodles or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mixture. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms and heavy cream if desired. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce. This dish also works well with skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Crock-Pot Chicken Licken over a bed of noodles or rice for a filling meal. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. It also complements sides like garlic bread or fluffy biscuits. For a unique twist, try serving it alongside Curry Rice-Cold Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cool the dish completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Chicken Licken contains roughly 475 calories, with 24g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (277% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (137% of the Daily Value), and iron (130% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2126mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but keep in mind that cooking time may need to be extended by an hour or so. It's best to thaw them before browning, as this ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption from the sauce.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version by sautéing fresh mushrooms and garlic, then adding heavy cream and a bit of chicken broth to thicken it. This will enhance the flavor and allow you to control the ingredients in your dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust to your taste before adding to the sauce, and remember that the spice level can also depend on the accompanying sides.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).